Abstract: A method for preparing hydrophobically modified rheology modifiers; said method comprising polymerizing a monomer mixture having two or more components. The first component is H2C?C(R)C(O)X(CH2CH2O)n(CH(R?)CH2O)mR? or H2C?C(R)C6H4C(CH3)2NHCO2(CH2CH2O)n(CH(R?)CH2O)mR?, wherein X is O or NH, R is H or CH3, R? is C1-C2 alkyl, R? is C8-C22 alkyl or C8-C16 alkylphenyl, n is an average number from 6-100 and m is an average number from 0-50, provided that n?m and m+n is 6-100. The second component is a C3-C6 carboxylic acid monomer; wherein polymerization occurs in the presence of an oxidant, a reductant and a metal catalyst, and substantially in the absence of a peroxide, hydroperoxide or perester containing an alkyl group having at least five carbon atoms.

Abstract: Colorant, dispersants, dispersions, and inks are provided which include PNPs having a mean diameter in the range of from 1 to 20 nanometers, and a second polymeric component comprising certain hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups. Also provided are methods for preparing colorants, dispersants, dispersions, and inks which include PNPs and a second polymeric component comprising certain hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups.